John P. Estep

With immense sadness, we announce the passing of John Paul Estep, 56, who left us to join his savior Jesus Christ on December 25, 2025, following a short illness at Hershey Medical Center. John was born August 10, 1969, to Paul William Heist and Kathleen (Dobbins) Estep in West Reading, PA. After graduating from Wyomissing High School, he enlisted in the United States Army. Throughout his twelve-year career, John traveled all over the world and took pride in defending our nation. John was a man of quiet strength, always ready with a listening ear or a helping hand to those in need. He loved animals, especially his dog Maddie, sports, fishing and camping. John found joy tending to his vegetable garden  and took great pleasure in sharing his homemade spaghetti sauce with his neighbors. Johnny was blessed with love and support from the Dobbins, Heist and Estep families. He was preceded in death by his father, Paul William Heist. Left to treasure John’s memory is his mother Kathleen Estep, sisters Kimberly High, Jennifer Estep, and his adoring nephew Tyler Geiger. John was especially close to his cousin Chris Gamber. John is survived by his devoted partner of twenty-one years, Kathy Ann Crawford and her son, Robert. Kathy will hold close the many special memories they shared. A service with military honors will be held at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring John’s memory by helping a fellow veteran or an animal in need.